Tens of thousands of people have begun to converge on Goodwood for their annual chance to go back in time at the Revival.

The motor circuit near Chichester has been transformed into a giant film set and spectators are dressed up in period outfits to play their part as extras in a weekend that mixes serious racing of historic cars worth millions with fashion and fun.

Traffic built up from early this morning on the A27 as people headed to this sold-out annual celebration of Goodwood’s motor racing heyday from 1948-1966.

As many as 150,000 will come through the gates over three days, travelling from as far afield as Australia and New Zealand to lap up the unique Revival atmosphere and action.

Legendary racer Sir Stirling Moss will be watching on, while John Surtees and Sir Jackie Stewart will also join the party.

Dragon’s Den businessman Theo Paphitis will be behind the wheel, trading his suit for a set of fireproof overalls to race a Ford Anglia in the St Mary’s Trophy for 1960s production saloons.

He said: ‘I’m incredibly excited to be making my Goodwood Revival debut. I just don’t want to be saying ‘‘I’m out’’ at any point of the race.’

Six-time Olympic cycling gold medallist Sir Chris Hoy is due to drive a Mini, while Pink Floyd drummer Nick Mason, celebrity chef James Martin and new Top Gear host Chris Evans will also be there.

Thirteen of the petrolhead DJ’s collection of classic cars are being offered for sale during a Bonhams Revival auction tomorrow. They include a 1966 Ferrari 275 GTB/6C Alloy worth up to £2.9m.

There’s also plenty of action in the air, with displays including the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight featuring Spitfires and Hurricanes.

Goodwood’s Lord March said: ‘The Revival really is a dream come true. Even now I have to pinch myself when the cars come out to race and every year I’m as thrilled as ever to see the circuit back in action.’

Don’t miss The News tomorrow and Monday for Revival pictures and reports, plus weekend updates and video here at portsmouth.co.uk. We’ll also be tweeting using the hashtag #revivalnews